HIDDEN away down a quiet country lane in the stunningly beautiful west Pembrokeshire countryside, Ty Gwartheg is the kind of idyllic holiday retreat which, once discovered, you'll want to return to again and again.

Once part of a family farmstead, this one-time barn has been cleverly restored and converted into a charming bungalow-style home-from-home, with breathtaking open views across farmland down to the coast.

And despite retaining all of its rustic, rural appeal, with its thick stone walls and open-beamed ceilings, it's as cosy and welcoming a cottage as you could ever wish to find.

The living room has an open fireplace and a wealth of charming period furniture - perfect for snuggling up in on dark winter nights in front of the modern, flat screen TV and DVD player.

There's a fully equipped shower room and the bedrooms - one double, one twin - boast a truly homely feel, with comfy beds and plenty of storage space, so often a rarity in rental properties.

The kitchen/diner area covers every eventuality for a self catering stay, but chances are, if the sun's shining you'll be drawn to dining al fresco in either the pretty, secluded rear patio garden or on the large parking area to the front, with its view to die for down to the coast.

This is really getting away from it all as it should be - there's a handful of pubs within a couple of miles, most notably the Ship Inn in nearby Trefin and The Sloop in the quaint fishing harour of Porthgain - but other than that, Ty Gwartheg finds itself in an enviable position of pretty much total isolation. Bliss.

It's just perfect for exploring the coastal path, dog walking or exploring the pretty little coves and beaches at nearby Abercastle, Porthgain and Aberfelin among others, and if great swathes of golden beach are your thing, the spectacular bay at Whitesands is a short drive away.

A world away from the tourist honey traps at resorts like Tenby and Saundersfoot, much as they have their place, if peace, solitude and beautiful surroundings are what you seek, look no further.

Sleeping four, a week’s stay at Ty Gwartheg, near Trefin is priced from £425 (or £395 plus booking fee), one dog is also welcome. To book call Quality Cottages on 01348 837871 or visit www.qualitycottages.co.uk. For information about things to see and do in Pembrokeshire see www.visitpembrokeshire.com.